Can We Make A Run With This O-Line

[*SHRacerX*]

(11-20-2021, 12:58 PM)KillerGoose Wrote: I think part of the reason ZT has relied on passing is because the run game has kind of stunk. It is well below average, Mixon has decent numbers because of his volume but he and the line aren't really playing all that well. On the other hand, the passing game has been quite strong by most measures other than EPA. For the run game, here is Cincinnati's ranks...

EPA per rush (23rd)
Yards per carry (22nd)
Success Rate (25th)
Explosive Plays (27th)
TD% (14th)

And for the passing game...

EPA per pass (15th)
Yards per attempt (1st)
Success Rate (9th)
Explosive Plays (5th)
Passer Rating (4th)
TD% (1st)

It makes sense that ZT wants to rely on the pass, it's the only thing working. I'd be a little frustrated if he ran just to run when it isn't working. That doesn't do anything. The main issue is that Burrow has really been playing risky ball, and that works when he is offsetting the turnovers with touchdowns. The problem is when he doesn't hit those touchdowns. The passing game is the only thing that works, and when it isn't working, Cincinnati is B A D. 

I completely get what you are saying, but the problem is the opposing defenses don't have to respect the run and they are keying on the passing game, and that is getting Burrow hit way too much.  How B A D is Cincinnati without Burrow?

I am not saying they need to be a run-first team, with a higher % on the run, but even 2-3 yard runs early in a game have a way of opening things up and they also pay dividends in the fourth quarter.  

Ask any offensive linemen what he would rather be doing:  run block or pass block.  They will tell you run block every day of the week and twice on Sunday.  It motivates them to DRIVE someone rather than retreat and catch someone.  

Mixon has been one of the highest rated PFF players on the team, especially his running scores.  He is averaging 4.2 yards per carry.  Derrick Henry is averaging 4.3.  The difference is the Titans keep pounding Henry and he eventually breaks one.  It also, as previously mentioned, really wears down opposing defenders.  I know there is about a 20 lb difference between Henry and Mixon, but trust me, if you are a 185 lb DB, and you have to tackle Mixon and then sprint after Higgins or Chase the next play, you are happier when Mixon isn't getting carries.

Burrow has also been lethal out of play-action.  He may love empty, but I think if they want to keep him healthy, running and more play-action is the key.

Two things I hope to see out of this offense this week:   A few more carries for Mixon and more high % targets for Boyd. Grind them down, keep their offense off the field.